The Affordable Care Act is far-reaching, complex - and on its way. In about six months - January 1, 2014 - federal law mandates that everyone have health insurance coverage. So what does that mean, exactly? Those seeking a better understanding of that question turned out for a colloquium this afternoon at the University of Southern Maine. The gathering included insurance, business and healthcare experts, and was organized in anticipation of the new online insurance marketplaces that open Oct. 1. Patty Wight spoke to colloquium facilitator Trish Riley, a senior fellow at the Muskie School of Public Service, to find out more.

Today the Maine Bureau of Insurance released rate information for new insurance products that will be offered through an online marketplace that opens in October. The new insurance products, which still need federal approval, are part of the Affordable Care Act, and are targeted to individuals and small groups. But if you're in this market and hoping for a quick and easy look at what insurance may cost you, think again. Patty Wight reports.

Most people know the Affordable Care Act is coming. But they may still have a lot of questions about how it will improve their health care. And according to some observers, that's especially true for minorities, who already face disparities in accessing health care. A minority health care conference in Portland today was focused on ensuring this population isn't left behind once the Affordable Care Act ramps up next January. Patty Wight reports.

On Oct. 1, the Health Insurance Marketplace will officially open across the U.S. and in Maine. It's a component of the federal Affordable Care Act that creates an online site that allows consumers to shop and compare different insurance plans. One non-profit organization that will offer new health insurance options celebrated its grand opening today in Lewiston. Patty Wight reports.